Get ready for a little learning and a lot of fun! Local museums have kids in mind this summer

If you are like most, you are still feeling the unpleasant pinch of the economy. And this summer, many families are downsizing their traditional summer vacations into weekend getaways or even day trips.

But, just because your trip is only one day doesn’t mean it can’t be memorable. Here are my top picks for affordable, family day trips that mix a little learning in with the fun. Shhh! The kids will never know!

HAGLEY MUSEUM

200 Hagley Rd, Wilmington, DE, 19807

July 22 – Sunday – 12:30 to 4 p.m. Hagley Creek Kids – Black Powder
Experiment with the many different uses of black powder, from stone cutting to explosives! These Creek Kids events will focus on the science behind black powder and how it was used during times of war and peace. Activities are included with general admission and are free for members.

FRANKLIN INSTITUTE

222 North 20th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103

Saturday, August 4 – 1:00PM-3:00PM Kitchen Science

Free with Museum Admission. Once a month, the Franklin Institute showcases kitchen science on Saturday afternoons. These fun- and flavor-filled events engage you in an exploration of food science through hands-on, taste bud-activating activities that help you understand the science behind food and cooking. Acids and Bases: Saturday, August 4, 2012. Why do some foods taste sour, bitter or sweet? Test the pH of common foods to learn more about their chemical makeup.